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NATCHEZ — The first week of July will be one of celebration in Natchez as city leaders begin a new term, and the community will celebrate the Fourth of July in style with a day filled with music and fun topped off with a grand fireworks display.

City of Natchez officials will be sworn in and have an inaugural celebration on Monday, July 1, at noon at the Natchez Convention Center.

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson and all six aldermen — Ward 1 Valencia Hall, Ward 2 Billie Joe Frazier, Ward 3 Sarah Carter Smith, Ward 4 Felicia Bridgewater-Irving, Ward 5 Ben Davis and Ward 6 Curtis Moroney — as well Municipal Court Judge Christina Ferrell Daugherty, will begin new terms in office that day.

“We invite everyone to attend this great event and celebrate the continuation of the Natchez Renewal, where we will celebrate the accomplishments of the past four years and, more importantly, highlight the goals and aspirations of the next four years,” Gibson said.

The celebration will reach its crescendo on Monday evening with an Inaugural Gala, a night of music, dance, and community spirit. The event will feature a special performance by Natchez’s own YZ Ealey, promising an evening of entertainment and celebration.

The gala is a free event open to all at Rolling River Reloaded, 406 Main St.

“Celebrating the inauguration of our city officials, we will enjoy great music, food, and refreshments. Please come ready to have a great time — and enjoy the beloved tunes of a Natchez Blues Legend, YZ Ealey,” Gibson urged.

On Thursday, July 4, Natchez will again hold an old-fashioned summer party at The Bandstand on Bluff in preparation for the Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza, which Vidalia businesswoman Sabrina Dore, a Shelter Insurance agent, organizes each year for the Miss-Lou community.

“The fireworks show is an annual tradition that draws thousands to our beautiful river to enjoy the Miss-Lou’s spectacular fireworks display,” Gibson said.

This year, live music kicks off early, beginning from 3 to 5 p.m. with Cha Cha Boo. From 5 to 7 p.m., Lincoln Outfit will perform, and from 7 to 9 p.m. Mira.Got.Soul will take the stage. Fireworks will follow.

“Wardo’s will be setting up a special food tent, free cold drinks will be provided by Coca-Cola, and Natchez Parks and Recreation will provide fun activities for the kids. Bring your coolers, blankets and lawn chairs, and get ready to have a great time,” the mayor said.

He said a highlight of the Fourth of July celebrations will be a special recognition for the Special Olympics athletes of the Miss-Lou.

“We are blessed to have one of our region’s largest contingents of amazing athletes who have brought home the gold, silver and bronze medals from last month’s competition in Biloxi. We can’t wait to celebrate their amazing success,” Gibson said.

“None of these events would be possible without the efforts of some amazing people. Thank you to our hardworking city employees for getting everything ready for these great events,” he said.

Gibson also thanked the voters of Natchez for another four years.

“Great things have truly been happening because of you, and greater things are on the horizon,” he said.